About Jeanette
Jeanette Jifkins is the Principal Lawyer at Onyx Legal, embodying a blend of entrepreneurial drive and extensive legal expertise, particularly in corporate law, digital services, and privacy law. With a notable career transitioning from litigation to preventative legal strategies, she is passionate about safeguarding clients from potential legal disputes. This proactive approach is rooted in her belief that prevention is more effective than cure, a philosophy she applies through her strategic legal frameworks that foster business growth and innovation.
Jeanette’s professional journey is marked by diverse roles, enhancing her understanding of the practical needs of businesses. Her experience as in-house counsel across various companies, including Riverside Marine and the Australian Psychological Society, equips her with a unique insight into risk management and business decisions. As the owner of multiple businesses, she leverages her personal experiences to simplify legal complexities, evident in her book Cover your arse online: a guide to protecting your online business assets, which reflects her commitment to clear and concise legal communication.
Her leadership extends beyond law practice, serving as a board member and advisor to numerous organisations like the Food Agribusiness Network and On the Line Australia, where she contributes her expertise in finance, risk, and audit. Jeanette’s dedication to demystifying the law is further demonstrated through her educational pursuits and public speaking roles at the eBusiness Institute Australia, enhancing business owners' understanding of legal considerations in the digital age.
Holding a Master of Laws from QUT and qualifications from respected institutions such as the KTH Royal Institute of Technology and the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Jeanette’s academic background complements her practical skills. Her advocacy for literacy and education is reflected in Onyx Legal's sponsorship of children through The Smith Family, underscoring her belief in education as a cornerstone for opportunity.
Outside of her professional life, Jeanette enjoys reading, swimming, and practising jujitsu. She cherishes time with her husband, Tony, and their pets, Roxy and Elliot, while enjoying the natural surroundings of their rural property.
